AMD Supports Crusoe AI Expansion

AMD is reportedly backing a $300 million loan for cloud computing startup Crusoe to finance the deployment of its AI chips.

The arrangement includes a guarantee mechanism allowing AMD to lease back its own hardware if Crusoe is unable to secure sufficient demand from AI developers.

The financing, led by Goldman Sachs, will be supported by the equipment being installed at a new data center project in Ohio.

Crusoe, originally launched in the cryptocurrency sector, has shifted its focus toward building cloud infrastructure for artificial intelligence applications.

The initiative reflects a growing trend among semiconductor companies to support emerging AI-focused cloud providers.

Southern Co Boosts Spending on AI Demand

Southern Co has increased its five-year investment plan as rising electricity demand from data centers and industrial users reshapes energy needs.

The utility now expects to spend about $81 billion between 2026 and 2030, marking a notable increase from its previous plan.

A significant portion of this investment will support expanded power generation to meet growing demand from technology-driven infrastructure.

Major technology firms are among the large customers seeking connections to Southern Co’s grid, reflecting the increasing energy requirements of data centers.

Executives noted that interest from potential high-capacity users continues to grow, highlighting the role of digital expansion in driving electricity consumption.

The updated spending outlook comes alongside rising operating costs and continued pressure on profit expectations.

Leaked Renders Reveal Design and Colour Variants of Poco X8 Pro and Poco X8 Pro Max

POCO X8 Pro & X8 Pro Max Leak Reveals Design, Specs Ahead of Global Launch  | Maaney Store

The Poco X8 Pro series is widely expected to make its global debut soon, with multiple models likely to expand the lineup. Early reports suggest that at least two variants — the Poco X8 Pro and the Poco X8 Pro Max — could arrive as successors to 2025’s X7 series. Although the Xiaomi sub-brand has not officially confirmed the devices, newly leaked renders have now surfaced online, offering a closer look at their design language and possible colour options.

According to images shared by tipster Paras Guglani (@passionategkeez) on X, the Poco X8 Pro features a flat rear panel with subtly curved edges for improved grip. The smartphone appears to house a vertical pill-shaped camera module positioned in the top-left corner, with two distinct lens rings that resemble the styling seen on recent flagship devices. Poco’s bold branding remains visible on the lower portion of the back panel, which seems to carry a clean matte or satin finish. The renders suggest at least three colour variants — black, white, and turquoise — giving users a mix of classic and vibrant options.

On the front, the Poco X8 Pro is expected to sport a flat display with slim bezels and a centrally aligned hole-punch cutout for the selfie camera. The power and volume buttons are positioned along the right edge, while the left side appears uncluttered. Notably, the power button features an orange accent, a design touch that has become a signature element in several Poco devices, adding a subtle yet distinctive visual flair.

Meanwhile, the Poco X8 Pro Max closely mirrors the Pro model in overall design and layout. The camera island placement and button configuration appear largely identical. However, the camera rings on the Pro Max look slightly more pronounced, potentially indicating enhanced camera hardware or larger sensors. If the leaks prove accurate, both models could deliver a refined aesthetic while maintaining Poco’s characteristic bold and performance-focused identity.